DRC opposition leader detained as protests erupt over constitutional amendment

In Kinshasa, the headquarters of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) was targeted by members of the youth movement “Force du Progrès,” linked to the UDPS party, on 26 June. Police dispersed the two‑hour sit‑in after protesters burned tires and shouted insults, but reported no material damage. The incident occurred amid heated debate over a proposed change to the DRC constitution, which the Catholic Church opposes.

Around the same time, opposition figure Sesanga was prevented from leaving the country when immigration officials seized his travel document without explanation. Sesanga, a member of the C64 opposition coalition, said the action violated his constitutional right to freedom of movement and reflected arbitrary behavior by state institutions. Both events are part of a broader wave of demonstrations against the constitutional reform, including a blocked protest on 12 June and plans for further rallies demanding President Félix Tshisekedi’s resignation.